Holly Marie Combs has once again addressed the alleged conflict between her “Charmed” co-stars, Alyssa Milano and Shannen Doherty.
Taking to Instagram on Monday, Combs responded to Milano’s recent statement regarding her experience working on the supernatural drama, which aired from 1998 to 2006. Combs had previously claimed in a December episode of Doherty’s podcast, “Let’s Be Clear,” that Milano was responsible for Doherty’s departure from the series due to tensions on set.
During an appearance at MegaCon Orlando last week, Milano dismissed any discussion of past issues on “Charmed” as “revisionist history.”
Feeling compelled to defend herself, Combs posted a lengthy statement on Instagram, asserting that her and Doherty’s account of their “Charmed” experience is not revisionist history but rather the truth that Milano didn’t want people to know about initially.
Combs further claimed that Milano had the authority to stop the mediation process that allegedly led to Doherty’s exit from the show. She emphasized that nobody should have to fabricate their life story to accommodate someone else’s comfort.
The actress also referenced her co-star Rose McGowan, who replaced Doherty in the series’ fourth season, and expressed solidarity with her under the comments section of her post. McGowan echoed Combs’ sentiments, describing the situation as a necessary mess that needs to be addressed.
Milano responded to Combs’ allegations on Doherty’s podcast during her appearance at MegaCon Orlando, insisting that she had been transparent and had taken accountability for her role in the situation. She shared a transcript of her comments on Instagram, emphasizing that the cast’s negative portrayal of their “Charmed” experience is unjustified given the show’s success.
The “Who’s the Boss?” star refuted Combs’ claim that she had the power to dismiss Doherty from the series, clarifying that a professional mediator and an on-set producer were brought in to investigate the matter. Milano credited the studio, Aaron Spelling, and the network for making the decision to ensure the show’s success even after Doherty’s departure.
Doherty, in response to Milano’s statements, addressed the matter during a panel discussion at MegaCon Orlando alongside Combs and McGowan. She asserted that while she and her former castmates initially aimed to shield fans from the show’s drama, it was essential to set the record straight.
Contrary to Milano’s portrayal, Doherty stated that she and Combs were not malicious on the podcast and only aimed to tell the truth. She emphasized the importance of honesty, especially given her ongoing battle with stage 4 breast cancer, stating that she recalls the facts vividly and rejects any attempt at revising history.
In conclusion, the ongoing exchange between the “Charmed” co-stars highlights the complexity of interpersonal relationships in the entertainment industry and the significance of truth-telling amid conflicting narratives.